Back Control
Also known as: Back Mount, Rear Mount, The Back
The back is widely considered the most dominant position in grappling. Your opponent can't see you, can't attack you effectively, and has to survive your choke attempts while trying to escape. The key to maintaining back control is understanding that it's a system—hooks, seatbelt, hip position, and angle all work together. Lose one, and the position starts to deteriorate.
🎯Key Details
Seatbelt grip
Over-under around their chest, hands clasped at their sternum. The arm over their shoulder becomes your choking arm.
Hooks
Feet inside their thighs, heels toward their hips. Hooks control their lower body and prevent them from turning.
Choking side
If they escape, escape toward your underhook (safe) side. Never let them turn toward your overhook (choking arm) side.
Hip connection
Your hips stay tight to their hips. Space between your hips = they slide down and escape.
Bottom hook activity
Your bottom hook must actively lift. This prevents them from sliding down and creates instability that opens submissions.
⚠️Common Mistakes
No seatbelt—only hooks
Hooks without seatbelt = they strip your feet and escape. Both are required.
Letting them turn toward choking arm
Force them toward your underhook side. Choking arm side escape = they slip out.
Hips too far away
Chest to back, hips to hips. Distance = they escape down.
Passive bottom hook
Bottom hook LIFTS. Passive hook lets them slide down and escape.
🚀Setups
- •Turtle to back
- •Mount to back (they turn away)
- •Arm drag from guard
- •Side control spin
- •Scramble back take
🛡️Counters / Defenses
- •Clear hooks, slide down
- •Two-on-one hand fight
- •Turn toward underhook side
- •Strip one hook and turn
🔄Variations
📍Applicable Positions
🔗Related Techniques
Track Your Progress on Back Control
Log when you drill this technique, track your success rate in sparring, and get AI-powered insights to improve.
Start Tracking